Maruti is producing the Boosterjet locally, a cheaper and more powerful Brezza, anyone?
Maruti Suzuki gears up for the launch of the Fronx, which is set to feature the beloved Boosterjet engine, a fan favourite that was first introduced in the Baleno RS. This time, the engine will be locally built and paired with a mild-hybrid system, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly option that is sure to impress enthusiasts.
CV Raman, Maruti’s Chief Technical Officer, expressed his enthusiasm for the possibility of using the Boosterjet engine in other Maruti Suzuki models. “Definitely, we have put in investments in localising this engine and so once we see numbers and customer acceptance we will definitely look at other products for this engine too,” he said.
Maruti learned valuable lessons from its first attempt at introducing the 1.0-litre turbocharged direct injection Boosterjet with the sportier Baleno RS, which involved importing a fully built-up engine, driving up costs for the already expensive technology. This time, however, the company will locally assemble the powerplant, reducing costs and making it more accessible to the masses.
The hybrid system paired with the Boosterjet engine suggests that Maruti has plans to use the engine in other models where efficiency demands could be higher than in the sporty Fronx. While Raman did not reveal which models would receive the Boosterjet unit, it is highly likely that the Baleno RS can be a recipient, given that the Fronx is technically a Baleno.
Other possible candidates for the engine include the Jimny and Brezza, both of which would benefit from the sub-4-metre tax subsidy with the 1.0-litre Boosterjet engine. Currently, both models fall in the sub-4-metre category, but they do not benefit from the small car tax, which caps a petrol engine’s capacity at 1.2-litres, as they are powered by a 1.5-litre petrol unit. With the lower tax benefit and the localised engine, Maruti could offer the Boosterjet version of the two SUVs at a competitive price.
Enthusiasts of the Swift have been clamouring for the Swift Sport since its introduction in India. A Boosterjet-powered Swift RS would be a perfect way to meet this demand. Interestingly, Maruti may need to increase the Boosterjet’s output from its current 100hp to match the 1.5-litre K series engine’s output in the Jimny and Brezza, which currently puts out 102-103hp. However, this should be a relatively easy feat, as the same powerplant produces 110hp in certain international markets.
Overall, the localisation of the Boosterjet engine is sure to be a game-changer for Maruti Suzuki, as it will allow the company to offer a cost-effective and eco-friendly option that is sure to impress families and enthusiasts alike.
